By Susan Tolley

Staff reporter

Many know Luther Draughn as “The Pepsi Man.” Others are familiar with his dedication to his home church, Pleasant Hill Baptist in Elkin, as well as his service on several committees with the Elkin Baptist Association. No matter what one’s connection to Draughn might be, he’s known by all as loving and kind.

“I’ve gone to church with them for years, they just the finest people,” said Denise Benge, speaking of Luther and his wife Diane. “I’ve known them for almost 18 years and they are so caring and have always put others first.”

On Feb. 15, Draughn suffered a brain aneurysm. He spent several weeks at Duke Medical Center in Durham, transferred to Carolina’s Medical Center Mercy Hospital in Charlotte, then onto Regional Rehab in Elkin on April 28.

Much of this time has been spent in the intensive care unit.

Draughn and his wife have a long road ahead of them as he strives for recovery.

Benge, along with Angie Cave and other friends, have planned a benefit hot dog supper and basket bingo fundraiser to help with mounting medical bills, and to show their support for the Draughns as they go through this difficult time.

“It’s just a little payback for all the things they’ve done for others,” said Benge.

Luther’s wife, Diane is encouraged by his progress.

“They say he’ll make a full recovery. But since he had a stroke with the aneurysm, there may be problems in the future,” Diane said. “We want to thank everyone for their support and prayers. It has been unbelievable and the Rehab center is fabulous. We hope to have him home n the near future.”

Updates about Draughn’s recovery are posted by his wife at :

caringbridge.org/visit/lutherdraughn.

About the event

• East Wilkes Middle School cafeteria in Ronda

• Supper/Registration: 5 p.m.; bingo at 6 p.m.

• Hot dog plate includes: Hot dog, chips, dessert and drink and costs $5. After the meal, seats will be limited to bingo players only.

• Bingo: $20/20 games, 3 cards per game. New and retired Longaberger® items will be the prizes.

• Coverall cards will be $3 each, or two for $5

• Dabbers, required for marking cards, will be $1 each.

• Also available for purchase will be raffle item tickets at $1 each.

• There will be door prizes in-between bingo games

Want to help?

Anyone who wishes to sponsor a bingo prize basket may do so for a $50 donation. Mail donations to:

Luther Draughn Benefit, c/o Denise Benge

431 Wagon Ridge Road

Roaring River, NC 28669

Donations can also be made by presenting them to Denise Benge at the BB&T Bank on North Bridge Street in Elkin.

For more information, please contact Angie Cave at 466-4442, or Denise Benge at 957-7790.